Book of Memories for John F. "Jack" O'Brien

Story shared: On the Road

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 23:09:15 EST

My fondest memories are associated with hitch-hiking to the beach; Misquamicut, the Cape, or my favorite, Hampton. It was the era of the commercial folk groups and two guys with a guitar and a pair of bongos could work their way down the length of a beach, wooing damsels, exciting the natives and garnering fame and fortune; all this with a healthy repertoire from the Kingston Trio. We provided many a spirited romantic moment for the tourists, who quite often would take us home where a party based on our performance would ensue. "Jug of Punch", "Charlie on the MTA" and our favorite, "Tijuana Jail" as well as many others would blast into the night and the liquor would flow like water. We would gladly render requests, even though we didn't know them. As long as we had the skeletal structure, we could fill in the blanks. The following morning, we would awaken on the floor, or porch, or some other area of the domicile, depending on what had transpired through the night, asking each other what we did. Often, the TV would be on and I remember one particularly inspiring morning, listening to a lecture on the evils of teen-age drinking; to which we raised our beers in agreement. Eventually, off we'd go to the beach and the next party, until finally, it was the sad time to bid adieu to our professional musical venue and return to our mundane Paper City existence. By this time, we had spent all of our meager income, save for the price of a Dairy Queen Hot Fudge Sundae which we would share along with a warm can of Schlitz, produced from one of our back-packs. Two amigos on the road to life, tasting, searching, experimenting and exploring the world and all that it had to offer. It would contribute to our knowledge, our spirit, and provide us with experiences that would be the source of many legends somewhat exaggerated with each telling. I was the elder, yet Jack was my mentor. I had little or no knowledge of the world, its joys and its pitfalls; a babe in the woods with a guitar and a few songs. Through Jack's teaching, I learned to have confidence in strange situations, to not fear advancing into the fog and to not restrain my natural urges, particularly when it came to girls. I learned that I was not the "ugly duckling" I thought I was, and that my talent alone with the guitar and song would go far to furthering my romantic journey. He also taught me the meaning of friendship, teamwork, and most importantly, that it's not the destination so much as the ride. As others have said..."Enjoy the ride!!"

Condolence From billy ford

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:53:36 EST

i still remenber our football days at holyoke catholic good by jack.

Condolence From Joan and Stuart Brown

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:59:15 EST

Jennie and Family, Words can't express how sorry we are to read of Jack's passing. It seems like yesterday we were at your wedding, dancing up a storm.What a beautiful wedding. Jack was such a fun person, full of life. Although we haven't seen each other in a while I think of you both often. You are in our prayers.

Condolence From Sharon and Carlo

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:34:40 EST

Our hearts go out to you Jennie and Kelly and family. Jack was a good man and loved you both with all his heart. I will never forget the times he made me laugh when I needed it most, a great friend! He will be missed dearly. Rest in peace "Jackie" Sharon Scott and Carlo Sotiropoulos

Condolence From Barry J. Farrell

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:45:17 EST

Jack has been a faithful member of the Parade Committee for many years. I can picture him in his apron at the annual love-in serving food and adding his humor to the festivities. He was a good man. Rest in Peace Jack.

Condolence From Nick Ottomaniello

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:29:15 EST

Sorry to hear of Jack's passing. He was a mutual friend from our days in Holyoke and South Hadly. Holyoke High Class of 1965. Apache Jct. AZ

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